Costco has rejected nearly all proposals from the Teamsters union, including key protections for workers, as the contract deadline approaches. The Teamsters accuse Costco of not bargaining in good faith and taking an anti-union stance, with unfair labor practice charges filed against the company. The union demands a contract that reflects Costco's significant profits and improves working conditions for its employees. If an agreement is not reached by January 31, 2025, over 18,000 workers may strike.
Google employees, represented by the Alphabet Workers Union, have urged the Department of Justice to ensure worker protections as the DOJ considers breaking up Google's search monopoly. They emphasized the need for workers to be able to voice concerns without fear of retaliation, especially as potential remedies could significantly impact their jobs. The DOJ is expected to propose measures like spinning off Chrome and Android, while Google has discouraged employees from discussing the case. The union stresses the importance of including workers' voices in the decision-making process.
Renee Poche, a contestant from "Love is Blind" Season 5, is suing Netflix and the show's production company, Delirium TV, for emotional distress and violating California laws, claiming the talent agreement was unlawful. She alleges she was treated like a prisoner during filming, felt unsafe, and is now facing a $4 million penalty for breaching her contract by speaking out about her experience. Poche's lawsuit follows similar legal actions by other reality TV participants, highlighting a broader issue of contestant treatment in the industry.
Renee Poche, a former contestant on Netflix's "Love is Blind," has filed a lawsuit against Netflix and Delirium TV, alleging emotional distress, imprisonment, and labor violations during her time on the show. The lawsuit seeks to nullify her contract and claims she was forced to endure unsafe conditions, including being locked in a room and paired with an abusive, substance-addicted contestant. The legal action is part of a broader challenge against exploitative practices in the reality TV industry, with lawyers Bryan Freedman and Mark Geragos representing hundreds of reality stars and crew members in various claims.
In 2024, nearly half of the U.S. states will increase their minimum wage, with Washington state setting the highest state wage at $16.28 an hour and Washington D.C. leading nationally with $17.05 an hour. Hawaii will see the largest increase, raising its minimum wage to $14 an hour. This change will result in a pay raise for millions of American workers.
